1.  Request that official transcripts be sent to the College from all schools you previously attended. (Although Sealed hand-delivered transcripts will speed up the process, they cannot be accepted for official credit).

Federal law requires Veterans to submit OFFICIAL SEALED transcripts from all schools, colleges, training institutions and technical schools attended to Rio Hondo College.  This includes all training and education received before entering active duty as well as any received during service and after discharge, even if VA benefits were not paid for attending the course or program.

Military transcripts AARTS, SMARTS, CCAF transcripts are required and/or DD295 or VMET or certificates of completion must also be submitted for military schools.

Students with out of state transcripts will need to also request a copy of the out of state school’s college catalog.

Students with foreign school transcripts will need to have the foreign transcripts evaluated by an academic credentials evaluation service, and will need an official copy of the evaluation sent to the Rio Hondo College Admissions Office.

Transcripts must be mailed to RHC.  Hand delivered, sealed transcripts cannot be accepted by the College.

2.  Contact the Assessment Office (562-692-0921) to schedule an Assessment Test.  All new Rio Hondo Students must be assessed for placement in Reading, Math and English.

3.  Contact the Counseling Center (562-908-3410) AFTER all your transcripts have been received and you have taken your Assessment Test and schedule an appointment to have a Program Evaluation and Prior Credit form(s) prepared.

You must have received all official transcripts before your scheduled appointment.

When you see the academic counselor, identify yourself as a veteran.  Veterans and dependents are required by law to declare a two-year major as listed in the Rio Hondo College catalog or a transfer major based on agreements with California State University, University of California or other four year college/university.  An “undeclared” or “general education” major are not acceptable for VA purposes.

The Educational Plan must be specific and indicate each class you must complete to fulfill your degree objective (major, prerequisities, general education requirements and electives) as well as the coursework you have completed toward your degree objective.

Be aware that the VA places restrictions on what courses you may be paid for.  A counselor’s recommendation may not be payable under VA regulations, especially if the class is a recommended elective.

Please prepare for possible delays in evaluation if you have more than one transcript or have out of state transcripts that require more detailed analysis.

4.  Submit an Application for VA Education Benefits (Form 22-1990) or Request for Change of Program or Place of Training form (Form 22-1995) (if you have received benefits at RHC or elsewhere).

Complete all sections of the form (The form will be returned if any section is left blank).

5. Submit a copy of your DD214 (Member # 4).  Reservist must provide a copy of their NOBE.

6.  Submit copies of your Educational Plan and Prior Credit Evaluation form to Veterans Services Office.